Stuffing Muffins

Stuffing Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings. These muffins not only provide easy portion control but also pack in flavors that everyone will love. The addition of turkey strips makes them hearty and satisfying, making them suitable for various occasions, from Thanksgiving to casual family dinners. Their unique muffin shape adds an appealing presentation that elevates your table setting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Portion Control: Stuffing Muffins are baked in a muffin tin, ensuring every serving is just the right size.
• Flavorful Ingredients: With fresh herbs and turkey strips, these muffins burst with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish or a base for a hearty meal, these muffins can be enjoyed year-round.
• Simple Preparation: The straightforward steps make it easy for anyone to whip up this delicious dish.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these muffins ahead of time and bake them when needed!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare these delicious Stuffing Muffins.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick muffin tin
• Large nonstick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick muffin tin: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the muffins for perfect presentation.
• Large nonstick skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables without the worry of food sticking, allowing flavors to blend beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

• olive oil spray
• 12 ounces whole wheat French bread (cut into small cubes (9 1/4 oz if dried))
• 3 ounces diced turkey strips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 shallots (minced)
• 3 large stalks celery (minced)
• 2/3 cup chopped parsley
• 10 fresh sage leaves (minced)
• 3/4 teaspoon Bell’s Seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth

How to Make Stuffing Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Let bread sit overnight to harden. If your bread is fresh, preheat the oven and bake the bread cubes on 2 baking sheets at 250°F for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway until the bread is completely firm.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Increase the oven temperature to 375°F. Spray a non-stick muffin tin with olive oil.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey strips until browned and the fat renders, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Add unsalted butter; when melted, add shallots, celery, parsley, sage, Bell’s seasoning, and salt. Cook on medium-low heat until soft, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cool Down

Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Mix Broth and Egg

In a medium bowl, combine chicken broth and beaten egg.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, add bread cubes and combine with sautéed vegetables. Stir well.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

Add chicken broth and egg mixture; mix thoroughly. If stuffing is too dry, add more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. Let sit for 10 minutes.

Step 9: Fill Muffin Pan

Transfer the stuffing mixture into the muffin pan. If preparing ahead of time, cover with foil and refrigerate.

Step 10: Bake

If making alongside a turkey, pour some of the pan juices from the cooked turkey over the stuffing before baking. Bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

How to Serve Stuffing Muffins

Stuffing muffins are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your meal. These delightful portions not only make for an excellent side dish but can also be enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger spread. Here are some creative serving ideas.

With Gravy

• Pour warm turkey or chicken gravy over the stuffing muffins for an extra layer of flavor. The rich sauce complements the savory herbs beautifully.

As Appetizers

• Cut the muffins into smaller bites to serve as appetizers at gatherings. Pair them with a dipping sauce, like cranberry or herbed yogurt, for an appealing twist.

Accompanied by Cranberry Sauce

• Serve alongside homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. The tartness balances the savory muffins perfectly, adding a festive touch.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Plate the stuffing muffins next to a variety of roasted seasonal vegetables. This colorful presentation adds nutrition and visual appeal to your meal.

How to Perfect Stuffing Muffins

Achieving the perfect stuffing muffins requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your muffins turn out delicious every time.

• Use Stale Bread: Allow your bread to sit overnight or toast it until dry; this helps absorb flavors without becoming soggy.
• Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh herbs like sage and parsley elevate the flavor profile, making your muffins taste more vibrant.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: If the mixture seems too dry before baking, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
• Bake Until Golden: Ensure you bake them until they are golden brown on top, indicating they are crispy outside while remaining moist inside.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffing Muffins

Stuffing muffins pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of suggested sides to complete your meal.

1. Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing that provides a hearty and satisfying main dish. Consider basting with herb-infused butter for extra flavor.
2. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add crunch and freshness.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting contrast to the texture of stuffing muffins.
4. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots provide a delightful balance of flavors on your plate.
5. Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a tangy kick that complements stuffing muffins well.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet, creamy casserole brings warmth and richness, making for a delightful contrast.
7. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy dish adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of stuffing muffins.
8. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, balancing out richer dishes on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Stuffing Muffins to a whole new level. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using fresh bread without drying: Fresh bread can lead to soggy stuffing. Make sure to dry your bread cubes overnight or bake them at a low temperature to achieve the right texture.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Don’t forget to add herbs and spices like sage and Bell’s seasoning to enhance the taste of your Stuffing Muffins.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until everything is combined for a lighter texture.
• Not letting the mixture sit: Allowing the mixture to rest helps flavors meld together. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before transferring it to the muffin pan.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your muffins while baking. Each oven is different, so check for a golden color rather than relying solely on the timer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow muffins to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Stuffing Muffins

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Stuffing Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on medium power for 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a covered skillet on low until warmed, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Stuffing Muffins that may help you perfect your recipe.

What are Stuffing Muffins?

Stuffing Muffins are individual portions of stuffing baked in a muffin tin, making them easy to serve and enjoy during meals or gatherings.

Can I customize my Stuffing Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables, nuts, or different herbs based on your preferences. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients!

How do I make vegetarian Stuffing Muffins?

To make vegetarian Stuffing Muffins, simply omit the turkey strips and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, along with your favorite veggies.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare your Stuffing Muffins ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just cover them tightly with foil.

Final Thoughts

Stuffing Muffins are an excellent side dish that combines convenience and flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy deliciously portioned stuffing that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Stuffing Muffins

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Stuffing Muffins are a delightful and innovative take on traditional stuffing, perfect for any gathering or meal prep. These savory muffins feature tender turkey strips and a blend of fresh herbs, creating a deliciously flavorful bite that appeals to everyone. The muffin shape not only allows for easy serving but also makes portion control a breeze. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or enjoying a casual family dinner, these Stuffing Muffins are sure to impress with their hearty texture and festive presentation.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• olive oil spray
• 12 ounces whole wheat French bread (cut into small cubes (9 1/4 oz if dried))
• 3 ounces diced turkey strips
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 shallots (minced)
• 3 large stalks celery (minced)
• 2/3 cup chopped parsley
• 10 fresh sage leaves (minced)
• 3/4 teaspoon Bell's Seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a non-stick muffin tin with olive oil.
2. If using fresh bread, bake bread cubes at 250°F for 30 minutes until firm.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook turkey strips until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add butter, shallots, celery, parsley, sage, seasoning, and salt; sauté until vegetables soften (8-10 minutes).
5. In a bowl, whisk together chicken broth and beaten egg.
6. In a large bowl, combine bread cubes with the sautéed mixture; stir well.
7. Gradually add the broth mixture until desired consistency is reached; let sit for 10 minutes.
8. Fill the muffin pan and bake uncovered for about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin (90g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg